ASI and Gora Belaya tourism cluster agreed to attract RUB 45 bln for eco-tourism development in the Sverdlovsk Region

The Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI) and the Autonomous Non-Commercial Organization "Gora Belaya Tourism and Recreation Cluster Management Company" entered into a cooperation agreement at the Kazan Tourism Forum "Benchmarks of the Future". The document was signed by the deputy head of the ASI Olga Zakharova and General Director of Gora Belaya Leonid Gunkevich.

The ASI is to develop integrated solutions on the development of specially protected natural areas (SPNA) that may enable the cluster to attract RUB 45 bln investments over the next 10 years. The funds from residents will be invested in the creation of 200 tourist attractions and approximately 2.5 thous. jobs, as well as in the increase of attendance to 1.5 mln people per year. There are two SPNA of federal and regional importance on the cluster territory: Visim Nature Reserve and Chusovaya River Nature Park.

The Agency will provide the cluster with guidelines to stimulate eco-tourism activities in SPNA and develop the cultural, eco-educational, and recreational spheres. The documents specify how to engage in differentiation and programming in SPNA and design infrastructure facilities, as well as include best waste handling practices.

The parties will also engage in the expert examination of tourist projects to be introduced in SPNA, as well as the creation of programs and recommendations for the management, employees, guides, and guests of national parks.

The Gora Belaya tourism cluster is a public-private partnership project where the authorities lay the foundation for tourist flow growth and ensure the entry of private investors in the project: develop a ski resort, develop engineering infrastructure, as well as invest funds in amenities and creating of tourist attractions. Businesses fit into the cluster with their projects of hotels, cafes, and attractions, as well as tourism services.